Two students sit in an undergrad class in Dougherty Hall

Academics

Our department offers comprehensive programs in mechanical and aerospace engineering designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in diverse industries, from automotive and aerospace to energy and manufacturing. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, our curricula prepare students to tackle real-world engineering challenges. Whether pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies, our students gain the skills and experience needed to excel in careers in engineering, research, and beyond.


Student working on project in EF classroom

Undergrad Programs

Accredited by the ABET Engineering Accreditation program, our undergraduate programs prepare students for dynamic careers in mechanical and aerospace engineering. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in math and science, hands-on design experience, and real-world problem-solving through senior design projects and internship opportunities to prepare students for impactful roles in industry, research, and innovation.

Senior Research Associate Gabriel A. Goenaga-Jiménez works with graduate student Anirban Roy at the scanning electrochemical workstation in a lab in Zeanah Engineering Complex.

Graduate Programs

Our graduate programs offer MS and PhD degrees in both mechanical and aerospace engineering, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career goals. Additionally, a dual MS-MBA program is available for students aiming to combine technical expertise with business acumen, equipping them with a unique blend of technical and managerial skills.

Student working on computer inside Visualization Lab

Specialty Programs

The college offers a number of specialty programs to ensure the success of our students. Whether you’re looking to explore interdisciplinary research, stay on top of cutting-edge technology trends, or challenge yourself through our honors program, we have a space for you.

Our Programs

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering is a vibrant learning community with several programs built to advance your future career. With undergrad programs designed to give you the foundation to enter industry or advance further in your academic careers and graduate programs created to train our future leaders in industry, academia, and government, there are programs designed for students at all levels.

Use the dropdown links below to learn more about what programs are available.

Undergraduate Degrees

  • Aerospace Engineering, BS
  • Aerospace Engineering, Minor
  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • Mechanical Engineering, Minor

Graduate Degrees

  • Aerospace Engineering, MS
  • Aerospace Engineering, PhD
  • Dual MS-MBA Program – Aerospace Engineering
  • Dual MS-MBA Program – Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering, MS
  • Mechanical Engineering, PhD
  • Reliability and Maintainability Engineering Major, MS – Aerospace Engineering / Mechanical Engineering Concentration

Graduate Certificates

  • Advanced Manufacturing Graduate Certificate
  • Hypersonics Graduate Certificate
  • Reliability and Maintainability Engineering Graduate Certificate – Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering concentration

Academic Resources

Whether it’s getting to know your fellow Engineering Vols through students orgs, planning your next semester with one of our advisors, or taking advantage of an experiential education opportunity through research or internships, there are people in the college here to help. Use the links below to learn more about some of the resources available to our students.

Student at the SEC Machining Competition

Student Organizations

Student organizations typically provide professional development and networking opportunities, guest speaker sessions, and access to regional and national conferences to connect with peers for a more robust student experience.

Students sitting around a table in the Engineering Quad

Advising

The Engineering Advising Office provides excellent academic program planning services to undergraduate students for a successful Volunteer Experience. Our professional advisors are here to help you navigate your academic career from your first year to graduation.

Student on co-op assignment

Career Services

Through a number of internship and co-op opportunities with industry partners, students have the chance to build their portfolios and prepare for the world of industrial engineering beyond graduation.

Research

The department’s research portfolio is supported through industry and government partnerships, multi-year grants, and several research centers. Our undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to work alongside word-class faculty to unlock the solutions to tomorrow’s challenges.

Students celebrate at Commencement

Student Success

The college’s Office of Student Success helps students achieve their goals by providing personal, professional, and academic support to all.

Student works with chemicals inside SERF lab

Honors Program

The Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program offers academically qualified students the chance to experience a broader, more rigorous academic path with opportunities in research, entrepreneurship, global studies, and community engagement.